Taylor Stafford, a fifth-year life skills special education teacher, takes her teaching position at Kesling Intermediate School very seriously.
Originally from Rolling Prairie, Taylor Stafford attended Indiana University South Bend to become a secondary education history teacher. She had always wanted to be a teacher and was excited for her student teaching experience that placed her in Kesling Intermediate. After that valuable experience, Stafford knew she wanted to work for La Porte schools. Years ago, Stafford jumped at the opportunity when a substitute position opened up for a special education classroom at Kesling Intermediate.
“I honestly never saw myself in special education, but I'm glad I took that job five years ago,” Stafford said. “Celebrating small victories with the kids and seeing their growth when others might miss it is the highlight of my life.”
Despite how naturally she has succeeded in the role, there were challenges in the beginning for Stafford.
“I had to constantly learn new things every day,” Stafford said. “There's many different disabilities within one classroom, so making sure I could accommodate and provide education and care for every single student was challenging at first.”
In addition to celebrating and accommodating her students, Stafford takes pride in her consistent ability to advocate for her students.
“One of my biggest responsibilities as an educator is to advocate for my students. That's a role that I take pride in and take very seriously,” Stafford said.
In the spirit of advocacy, Stafford implores that every community educate themselves and work to be more inclusive.
“Day-to-day in the classroom, my students work so hard to learn how to interact with others; it doesn't come naturally to them,” Stafford said. “Others should also learn how to interact with people different from them.”
Stafford is grateful for the support she receives in the education community. Every person involved helps her overcome challenges and obstacles.
“I have to give a shout out to my two paraprofessionals. I'm very lucky to have them,” Stafford says. “My administration is great. They always hear my ideas for the school and my classroom, and I appreciate that.”
The inclusivity and support within the education community is important, as well as in the community itself. Stafford implies others to reflect on their actions.
“What might you be doing in your daily life to include others? It can be something super small; the small things are so meaningful in the big picture,” Stafford said.
Despite the obstacles that special education teachers would face, Stafford encourages those who are passionate to consider entering the field.
“This is a job that makes you feel good and allows you to give back. It’s worth all the effort it takes when you finally get into the classroom and help others succeed,” Stafford said.
Outside of work, Stafford loves to go on walks with her dog Willa. In addition to calm nature walks, she enjoys reading in her free time. She and her sister, along with their respective partners, love to spend time together. They all live together and have ample time to bond. Stafford is grateful for their companionship, as well as her friends and family.